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Abstract

Historic mill buildings are vast structures that tend to have a negative connotation associated with them. They are usually looked at as eyesores or symbols of a historic, working past that should be demolished. However, due to a variety of reasons, and the array of benefits that can be created if preserved, these mill buildings should be redeveloped and in a green, sustainable way. This Master's of Regional Planning Project examines the concept of sustainable mill revitalization, and various case study examples in the state of Massachusetts that demonstrate this. Various patterns of the concepts and elements were evident amongst the case studies. Through research and these case studies, a set of case-study-based green principles for sustainable historic mill redevelopment are proposed. These principles can serve as a basis for future development of similar sets of values.

Additionally, various planning concepts and initiatives were applied in the case studies and worth being noted in this project. Historic mills are large structures that tend to be located in downtown areas, which makes it a main task for regional planners to determine what next steps should be taken to handle these buildings. If redeveloped, the mills offer an array of benefits associated with planning goals and theories of today.